Sumi Jo Signs Exclusive Deal with SM Entertainment for 40th Anniversary Album
Renowned soprano to release 'Continuum' album next month through SM Classics label
Quick Look
- Renowned soprano Sumi Jo has signed an exclusive recording deal with SM Entertainment, joining their classical and jazz label SM Classics as its first exclusive artist.
- The 63-year-old will release a special anniversary album titled 'Continuum' next month featuring 11 tracks that encompass her past, present, and future repertoire, marking 40 years since her 1986 international debut at Teatro Verdi in Trieste, Italy.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Sumi Jo is one of the world's leading sopranos, having made her international debut in 1986 at Teatro Verdi in Trieste, Italy, performing in 'Rigoletto'. She has established herself as a major figure in classical music over four decades.
SEOUL, April 21 (Yonhap) -- Renowned soprano Sumi Jo has signed an exclusive recording deal with SM Entertainment and will release an album marking the 40th anniversary of her international debut, the agency said Tuesday. Jo will join the K-pop agency's classical and jazz label, SM Classics, as its first exclusive recording artist, which will support her digital music production and upcoming releases. The special anniversary album, titled "Continuum", is scheduled for release next month. According to SM Entertainment, the project will feature 11 tracks that encompass the singer's past, present, and future repertoire. An exact date for the release has not yet been disclosed. "The album brings together high-difficulty coloratura arias I have never recorded before, along with new works by contemporary composers," Jo said in a press release. "I aim to break down the boundaries between the legacy of classical music and modern sensibilities, and to continue challenging myself with new music rather than staying on familiar paths." The 63-year-old will begin a nationwide tour next month and is set to host the second Sumi Jo International Singing Competition in France in July. She made her international debut in 1986 at the Teatro Verdi in Trieste, Italy, performing in the opera "Rigoletto," and has since established herself as one of the world's leading sopranos.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Sumi Jo will release additional albums through SM Classics beyond the initial 'Continuum' project
Likely · Within months
The collaboration may lead to cross-genre performances blending classical and K-pop elements
Possible · Within months
Open Questions
- Exact release date of the album
- Specific tracks included in 'Continuum'
- Details of the nationwide tour dates and venues
